WISCONSIN (SPECTRUM NEWS) -- Staying afloat is day to day for many Wisconsin restaurant owners right now.  But Dave Jurena has turned that uncertainty into a mission to feed others.

Carryout customers at The Soup Market in Bay View are few and far between these days.  Owner Dave Jurena told us, "honestly we don't know how long we're going to be around. A month ago we had 29 employees, we have two." 

Jurena has found a new calling for his soup creations.  He's delivering soup and cookies to healthcare workers.  Ladling out warm meals for those taking care of COVID-19 patients.  "If that's how we go out, and that's how people remember us I'd rather end on a high note," Jurena commented.

He started "Adopt A Medic" two weeks ago and has raised almost $2,000.  "We've had calls from Florida, California; they donate 25 bucks, 50 bucks, $100," Jurena said.  

$200 is the biggest, one time, donation so far.  That equals a lot of cups of soup.  "It's reassuring that people come together in a time like this and help out wherever they can."

Jurena has made six deliveries to area hospitals, including a drop at the Milwaukee VA.  Ascension Columbia St. Mary's, on the city's east side, was on the list for Wednesday.

Social distancing deliveries that show even though we are far apart we are still one community.  "If we're just pulling up and dropping off food and people get five minutes in their day to enjoy a quick meal, that makes us feel good," Jurena told us.

The Soup Market is open for carryout at its Bay View and Hales Corners locations.  If you are picking up food you can donate to "Adopt A Medic" in the restaurant.

They also take donations over the phone.

Bay View:  414-727-8462

Hales Corners:  414-529-8534